Community Corner

Tornado Safety, Day 3 of Severe Weather Awareness Week

Statewide tornado drill issued today by the National Weather Service.

Today is “Tornado Safety Day,” as Severe Weather Awareness Week continues in Forsyth County and throughout the state.

Having an emergency plan in place for you and your family is key to surviving these violent and unpredictable storms reports the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA)/Homeland Security.

“The unpredictable and violent nature of tornadoes makes being prepared essential,” said Charley English, director of GEMA/Homeland Security in a statement to Cumming Patch. “A sudden storm can cause quick devastation, often striking when family members are in different places, so a reconnection plan is key.”

Find out what's happening in Cummingwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Georgia has more tornado strikes than most states in the country every year, resulting in millions of dollars in damage and often taking lives. Most of these twisters hit during the late spring and early summer months, although they can strike any time of the year, according to GEMA. On Mother’s Day in 2008, four people were killed when at least 20 tornadoes touched down in the state.

That’s why Governor Nathan Deal and GEMA/Homeland Security urge residents to take steps to prepare for these dangerous storms that can strike with very little warning. Many tornadoes are wrapped in rain, hiding their trademark funnel cloud.

Find out what's happening in Cummingwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

This morning at 9 a.m. the National Weather Service will issue a statewide tornado drill. The test message will go out over NOAA Weather Radio.

Forsyth County plans to participate in the tornado drill as well. “The time at which the outdoor weather sirens will sound will depend upon local weather conditions,” said Jodi Gardner, director with the Forsyth County Department of Communications.

Here are some tips on how to prepare, plan and stay informed about tornadoes:

Prepare for a Tornado

  • Familiarize yourself with the terms that are used to identify tornado hazards: a tornado watch means a tornado is possible in your area; a tornado warning means a tornado has been spotted in your area, and you need to take shelter immediately.
  • Determine in advance where you will take shelter in case of a tornado warning.
  • Prepare a Ready kit of emergency supplies, including a first aid kit, NOAA Weather Radio, and a three-day supply of food and water.

 Plan to Take Shelter

  • If local authorities issue a tornado warning or if you see a funnel cloud, take shelter immediately.
  • Storm cellars or basements provide the best protection.
  • If underground shelter is not available, go into an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible.
  • In a high-rise building, go to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible.
  • Stay away from windows, doors and outside walls. Go to the center of the room. Stay away from corners because they attract debris.
  • A vehicle, trailer or mobile home does not provide good protection. Plan to go quickly to a building with a strong foundation, if possible.
  • If shelter is not available, lie flat in a ditch or other low-lying area. Do not get under an overpass or bridge. You are safer in a low, flat location.
  • Stay in the shelter location until the danger has passed.

 Stay Informed about Tornadoes

  • Local authorities may not immediately be able to provide information on what is happening and what you should do. However, you should listen to NOAA Weather Radio, watch TV, listen to the radio or check the Internet often for official news and instructions as they become available.
  • After a tornado, be sure to remain out of damaged buildings and stay clear of downed power lines.
  • Help injured or trapped people. Check on others who may require special assistance, such as the elderly, children and people with disabilities.

For more information on putting together a customized checklist of emergency supplies and a tailored family communications plan visit Ready Profiles at www.ready.ga.gov.

Tomorrow Cumming Patch will focus on Lightning Safety, preparing for one of the deadliest weather phenomena.


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